OBITUARIES

Duane Andrew Burch

At the age of 70, Duane passed away peacefully at his home in Heenan Place in Kenora. Duane was born in Pipestone, Minnesota to Duane and Elsie Quirk Burch. He grew up with his brothers and sisters and attended schools in Pipestone. Duane married Jan Van Dyke and they moved to Kenora "God's Country" and made it his permanent home. Duane later married Cindy Weare of Kenora, and in 1988 their daughter Kimberlee was born. Duane is survived by a son Duane Jr. and granddaughter Sarah living in the USA and a daughter Kimberlee (Shane) Henley, granddaughter Charlee and step grandchildren Michael and Christina. Also surviving are sister Barb (Gil) Breuer, brother Randy (Kathy) Burch, sister-in-law Karen Burch, and many nieces and nephews. Duane was predeceased by his parents, brothers Robert (Ann) Burch and Eugene (Karen) Burch. Arriving in Canada, Duane worked for the Keewatin Flour Mill, RJ Ball Electric, Marr's Marine and Nelson's Leisureland. Duane's love for boating and his experience in boat repair prompted him to start his own business, thus Whitecaps Marine Service was started. Duane could be found out and about. He made the rounds of the coffee shops and was well known in the community. Duane loved to share jokes and he had his own vocabulary for certain life experiences. Boating and fishing held a special interest for him. He was happiest while reeling in a big one. He competed in the early years of the Kenora Bass Tournaments and had placed in the top ten for his efforts. Duane was a caring friend. He was always there to lend a hand or to throw a line in the water. He enjoyed socializing and never passed up a meal with friends. Living out in the country on the Essex Road, he fit in easily with the friendly people and country lifestyle. Duane leaves behind many lifelong friends and acquaintances. A Come and Go Celebration of Duane's Life will be held on Sunday, December 2 at the home of his daughter Kimberlee at 433 Essex Road between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. A Memorial Service and interment will take place at a later date with his American family in Hadley, Minnesota. Kimberlee would like thank all those people who showed her father kindness and care. Special thanks and appreciation to Ian Scott who was his very good friend.0

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fond memories

Posted by Cary Strachan (friend) On Sunday, December 16, 2012I first worked with Duane at Marrs marine around 1973 repairing boats. His dry sense of humour always made the days go by with laughter and a smile. R.I.P. Duane someone Ill never forget.

Posted by Jan Sykes (Friend) On Saturday, December 1, 2012It was nice speaking to you Cinday and Kim last week. Thinking about you and wishing you courage to help see you through, day by day. Hoping your memories will warm your heart always.

Jan

Mr. Fish

Posted by Stash Zroback (friend) On Tuesday, November 27, 2012I'll miss seeing him on the water, Duane was a respected fisherman, the bass on Black Sturgeon will miss him too. Tight lines... Stash

Condolences

Posted by Ab and Char McDonald (friends) On Monday, November 26, 2012We were so sad to hear of Duane's passing. He was such a gentle man and we will miss seeing him and having a chat. May his family take comfort in the good memories.